TECHNOLOGY FOR SENIORS

From Medical News Today, word on a – possibly – promising treatment for those who have Parkinson’s Disease. Scientists have known for some time that there are links between the decline of cells that produce dopamine – a key neurotransmitter – and loss of motor function in Parkinson’s patients.  They found that the molecule — […]

The days are getting longer, and before you know it, winter will be gone, and spring will be here.  Get them outside. A long winter spent almost entirely indoors means they’re likely craving some open skies. Find an activity that fits their activity level and any physical or cognitive difficulties. An afternoon at the zoo, […]

From Consumer Reports, a study showing that a little gaming time can be beneficial for seniors.  According to researchers from the University of California at Irvine, seniors who play online brain games can boost their cognitive skills to be just as sharp as those decades younger than them.  “The brain is not a muscle, but […]

Computer use is a fact of life in today’s world. But for someone who grew up in an analog world, the switch to digital can be disorienting. You can help make your senior loved ones’ time on the computer a much more enjoyable – and less frustrating – experience.  Keep their computers updated. Make sure […]

From KATU, a great story about the power of art to heal.  “ Once a week, an office in NW Portland is a place of peace, concentration, and joy. As paintbrushes touch paper, there’s radiance. It’s a contrast to a dim reality. “I’ve seen some artists really decline and go from being very content and […]

The details of the tour, straight from the Alzheimer’s Association.  If you have a loved one who suffers from Alzheimer’s or any dementia-related condition, this is an invaluable resource. The tour brings together medical professionals, caregiving experts, political leaders, and other organizations to meet with those caring for Alzheimer’s sufferers. The tour will offer lectures, […]

Making sure seniors get proper nutrition can often be a struggle. But that doesn’t mean mealtime has to be like wartime. With the appropriate preparation and mindset, you can help ensure your senior loved ones enjoy coming down to the dinner table while eating well in the process.  Routine, routine, routine. – I make this […]

You may look out the window at this moment and see snow and bare branches, but the warmth of spring is right around the corner. Now is the perfect time to help your senior loved one take a look at their financial health.  Examine credit card & bank statements for recurring charges. Many seniors have […]

When caring for an elder loved one, some conversations are unpleasant but necessary. One of those conversations is often about alcohol consumption.  To be clear right off the bat: this isn’t about alcoholism or addiction. Those are distinct conditions, which have to be addressed on their own.  What we’re talking about here is ‘casual’ or […]

The news has been fixated on an outbreak of coronavirus in the Chinese province of Hubei. At this point, there is absolutely no reason to panic or even worry outside of China. Here are the facts: Coronavirus refers to a class of viruses; much the same way lizards are a class of animal.  Both the […]

The recently concluded CES (consumer electronics show) had the usual showcases for new TVs, cutting edge computers and the newest home gadgets. But this year’s show had a new focus: technology for our aging population. Some of the products were riffs on classic CES products, but with a focus on senior markets. Including: A ball-shaped […]

A new study shows that one of the major contributing factors to Parkinson’s disease and Lewy Body Dementia may begin in the human gastrointestinal tract. New Atlas has a report on the study published in the journal Cell. The study shows that the development of Lewy Bodies – clumps of proteins that interfere with neurological […]

Could something as simple as an eye exam help detect Alzheimer’s before symptoms emerge? This is the question researchers at the University of Rhode Island are currently investigating.  According to the Providence Journal, the test would use non-invasive instruments to scan the eye searching for biomarkers and could be conducted in most ophthalmic practices. Previously […]

We talk a lot about caring for our loved ones, but we don’t talk enough about caring for ourselves as caregivers. If you are reading this, then chances are you know how…exhausting it can be caring for a loved one who has medical issues. Maybe exhausting isn’t the right word. Maybe, as a friend of […]

A new study out of Brazil shows that some relatively simple activities and exercises designed around fall-prevention can have significant beneficial effects for participants. The interactive session was split into two parts: a lecture session which highlighted the risks associated with falls, and a group memory game activity. Participants in the course were later quizzed […]